Gardeners, are you looking for a truly unique addition to your succulent plant collection?  Look no further than the Portulaca molokiniensis, also known as the Ihi, which is a unique and fascinating species of succulent Portulacas.

With its standard columnar shape, the Portulaca molokiniensis plant looks like a teardrop and has small yellow stacked leaves. This Ihi succulent has its origin in the Hawaiian Islands, where it is known as the Ihi plant. Portulaca Molokiniensis is summer dormant and grows up to 18 inches tall. This unique Ihi plant grows at a fast pace and is extremely rewarding when it comes to finding a succulent that grows well and properly, even in the smallest amount of time.

The leaves of your Ihi plant have a vibrant green coloration and are covered in a waxy coating, which helps the plant retain moisture in its harsh natural habitat. Additionally, the Portulaca molokiniensis has the ability to change color throughout the day. During the morning and evening hours, when the sunlight is less intense, the leaves display a beautiful green hue. However, as the sun reaches its peak during the day, the leaves transition to a stunning shade of purple or reddish-purple. This color change is a result of the plant's natural adaptation to protect itself from excessive sunlight and heat.

The flowers of the Portulaca molokiniensis are absolutely stunning and cup-shaped! Portulaca Molokiniensis bears golden-yellow flowers. The plant grows best between the seasons of late spring and late summer. These flowers have a distinct appearance, with multiple petals forming a beautiful rosette shape. The flowers open during the day and close at night, adding an element of fascination to this already beautiful plant. Whether you choose to grow it indoors or outdoors, the flowers of the Portulaca molokiniensis will surely catch everyone's attention and bring a burst of color to any space! 

Watering Needs

The Portulaca molokiniensis is a drought-tolerant succulent, which means it requires minimal watering. It is best to water this Portulaca plant sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other issues with rare plants, so it's important to practice moderation when it comes to watering.

To determine when it's time to water your Portulaca molokiniensis, simply check the soil moisture level. If you can stick your finger about an inch into the soil and it feels dry, it's time to water.  When watering, make sure to thoroughly saturate the soil, allowing the excess water to drain out. Avoid leaving your Portulaca sitting in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.

During the summer months or in hot, dry climates, you may need to water your Portulaca molokiniensisIhi more frequently. However, always be mindful of the soil moisture and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Remember, it's better to underwater than to overwater your Portulacas. 

Light Requirements

The Portulaca molokiniensisIhi loves basking in the sunlight!  It thrives in full sunlight to partial shade, so make sure it gets at least 6 to 8 hours of sunlight per day. This Portulaca plant enjoys soaking up the rays and will reward you with its beautiful blooms.

If you're growing Portulaca molokiniensis indoors, place it near a sunny window where it will get plenty of sunlight. South-facing windows are usually the best choice, as they provide the most intense light. If you don't have a lot of natural sunlight, you can supplement the light requirements of this succulent by using artificial grow lights.

While the Portulaca molokiniensisIhi loves sunlight, it's important to note that it can also tolerate some shade. If you live in a particularly hot climate, providing some afternoon shade can help prevent sunburn on the leaves. Just make sure your Portulacas gets enough light throughout the day.

Optimal Soil & Fertilizer Needs

When it comes to choosing the right soil and fertilizers for your adorable Portulaca molokiniensis, you need to be extra cautious and need to use the right kind of soil.  Moisture can be a real killer, leading to root and stem rot in no time flat. But fear not, my fellow green thumbs! Planet Desert has got your back with our specialized succulent potting mix that includes 5 natural substrates with organic mycorrhizae – perfect for promoting healthy roots and happy Ihi plants.

As for fertilizing, the Portulaca molokiniensisihi' doesn't require a lot of nutrients. A light application of a balanced (5-10-5), water-soluble fertilizer once a year during the growing season in the spring is usually sufficient. Make sure to dilute the fertilizer according to the instructions to avoid overfeeding. Remember, it's always better to under-fertilize than to over-fertilize succulents.

During the winter months or when the Portulaca molokiniensis is in a dormant phase, you can reduce or stop fertilizing altogether. This allows your Ihi plant to rest and prepare for its next growth cycle.

Hardiness Zone & More

The Portulaca molokiniensis prefers indoor temperatures between 65°F and 75°F. It thrives in warm environments, so try to keep it in a spot with consistent temperatures within this range.  If you live in a colder climate, it's best to grow this succulent as an annual or keep it in a container that can be brought indoors during the winter months.

If you are in USDA zones 9 through 11, you can grow this hardy Portulaca molokiniensisIhi outdoors. This indicates that your Portulaca plant can tolerate temperatures as low as 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. It's important to protect it from frost and freezing temperatures, as prolonged exposure to cold can damage or kill the plant.

In terms of humidity, the Portulaca molokiniensis is quite adaptable.  It can withstand a wide range of humidity levels, from dry to moderately humid. However, it generally prefers drier conditions. If you're growing it indoors, make sure to provide adequate ventilation to avoid the risk of fungal diseases.

The succulent can be propagated by taking the stem cuttings and giving them the time to dry out properly. Once the stems have been cut and kept moist, ample, thin yellow roots will slowly start forming in 2-3 weeks. Portulaca Molokiniensis “Molokini Portulaca 'lhi” is one of those rare plants that has been enlisted as an endangered species, making it even more special to own and grow. With its excellent foliage, it gets well with the indoor home décor.

The Bottom Line:

Overall, the Portulaca molokiniensis is a beautiful and unique Ihi plant that can thrive both indoors and outdoors. It features vibrant and eye-catching flowers that can add a pop of color to any space. With proper care, such as well-draining soil, bright sunlight, and occasional watering, this succulent plant can bring joy and beauty to your home or garden. So, if you're looking for a low-maintenance and visually stunning plant, the Portulaca molokiniensis is definitely worth considering!